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C E L E B R AT I N G HONORED WITH LIFETIME AWARDS DISCARD ACHIEVEMENT BLACK VOTES 30
VOTING RIGHTS CASES ATTEMPT The Black Stars News 2015 Annual
TO
YEARS!
York and a former chancellor of the
that day.” [NAACP v. USPS] to vote. On November 18, 2020, the plaintiffs IN COURTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY, WE HAVE SEEN will honor Mayor The NAACP in Michigan intervened in a New York public schools system. voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit. [Johnson v REPEATEDAwards ATTEMPTS TODinner DELEGITIMATIZE OUR Benson] DEMOCRACY BY TRYING TO DISENFRANCHISE BLACK David Dinkins, Rep. Charles lawsuit filed by the Trump campaign that Pioneering producers Stephen VOTERS. Throughout election cycle,Clarke, NAACP would disenfranchise Black voters. The Trump The NAACP in Michigan moved to intervene Rangel, this Rep. Yvette Byrd and Alia Jones, through their branches and units nationwide have been campaign filed a lawsuit in federal court to stop in a lawsuit that would disenfranchise Black to ensure that Pennsylvanians who made an R.strengthen Donahue Peebles, Barbara working to our collective voice in our Michigan from certifying the election results of voters in three counties. A group of individuals company Front Row Production, honest mistake in casting their absentee ballot democratic process – from registering voters to Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina the 2020 general election. The lawsuit alleges filed a lawsuit in federal court to exclude have a right to be notified so they can have brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” educating them about different voting methods numerous irregularities in Wayne County, and presidential-election results from three counties Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen their votes counted and their voices heard. On and “A Streetcar Named Desire” to fighting voter suppression efforts through attempts to throw out the election results from – Wayne, Washtenaw, and Ingham – which would November 5, 2020, the NAACP joined an amicus Alia Jones, and litigationByrd, and other strategies. Below arethe a listCentral of Wayne County. The NAACP-Michigan State result in more than one million voters being with a multi-ethnic cast to brief to protect the right of Pennsylvania voters cases where theFive NAACP got involved order toinjustice Park survivors ofingross disenfranchised. They allege illegal votes were to fix their ballot, by casting provisional ballot, Broadway. Ina2016 they bring representon theDecember interests of Black voters, prevent cast in those counties, diluting the vote counts. 18 from 6:00pm – if they made an honest with mistake in casting their “Eclipsed” Oscar Winner their disenfranchisement, and ensure their ballots The NAACP-Michigan State Conference moved to absentee ballot. Pennsylvania’s election law 10:00pm MIST Harlem, 46 West are counted and their at voices are heard. intervene as a defendant on November 14, 2020 Lupita Nyong ’Orequested to Broadway. specifically allows any voter who an 116th Street. because it believes it has a right to prevent the NAACP sued the U.S. Postal Service to absentee or mail-in ballot, but whose ballot has Honorees, the so-called Central disenfranchisement of its members. On November restore prompt and reliable mail delivery, and not been voted, to cast a provisional ballot. That “Each honoree for 16, 2020, the plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed the to ensure that mail-in ballotschosen are accorded Park 5, have are acollectively andif means that voters right to be notified recognition has lawsuit. [Bally v. Whitmer] priority status. On August 20, demonstrated 2020, the NAACP their ballot has been rejected due toThey technical individually heroes. are sued USPS in the Unitedleadership States District Court The NAACP in Pennsylvania intervened in exceptional and vision in errors so that they can make sure that their vote survivors of one of the ugliest of Washington D.C., alleging that Louis DeJoy, David Dinkins a lawsuitCharles filed byRangel the Trump campaign that is counted. Preventing voters from casting a her orGeneral, his respective profession or the Postmaster impeded the timely miscarriage of notified justiceof,inorNew would disenfranchise Black voters. The Trump provisional ballot if they are realizeYork’s endeavor and in some significant distribution of mail, implemented crippling policies campaign filed a lawsuit in federal court to stop on their own, that a mistake was made in casting history; having been railroaded majority. She now leads The was a member of the New York Pennsylvania from certifying the results of the on postalmeasure workers, and sabotaged the USPS in a has contributed towards their absentee ballot, would disenfranchise voters unjustly convicted for a6, crime blatant attempt to disenfranchise voters of color, Transformative Coalition. who haveand City Council, representing the 2020 General Election. If theyJustice are unsuccessful a legal right to vote. On November creating a more just society in this th who are already more harshly impacted by the they did not commit and for which in that claim, they are asking the court to 2020, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania Arnwine was for 26 years executive 40 council district in Brooklyn, country,” says Blackmethods Star News coronavirus and require alternative to stop the counting of millions of mail-in and ordered that all provisional ballots cast on Election they served long prison sentences director of the Lawyers’ Committee succeeding her mother, Una S. absentee ballots, which would disenfranchise in-personfounder voting to protect health andMilton safety. andtheir publisher Day by voters who also returned a mail-in ballot ranging from seven years to 13 years The lawsuit claimed that USPS failed to take the for CivilTheRights Under the Law. by Election T. Clarke. In the current 114th millions of voters. NAACP-Pennsylvania Day must be segregated from other Allimadi. “Obviously much work required steps before implementing operational before being exonerated when the State Conference is one of several civil rights provisional ballots. These voters may have voted Congress Clarke serves on Inezthat Barron, aprovisionally due to learning of an error on their be done and changes,needs includingto submitting themhere to the Postal organizations asked on honoree, November 10,formerly 2020 actual rapist confessed. They are: the Energy and Commerce Regulatory Commission, oversight body. State Assembly member, for the court to allow them to intervene as a is nowmail-in ballot that caused it to be rejected. After around theanworld.” Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond By ignoring this required process for changes, Committee, responsible for Conference moved to intervene as a defendant defendant in the lawsuit. They believe they have a New York City council memberthe provisional ballots are segregated, the Court the American denied a reasonable 13, 2020 because it believes it The public gala was starts at 6:00pm with a on November Santana Jr., Antronwhether McCray, a right to do so because they have an interest in ordered that must be determined they Kevin consumer protection, food and champion of education for are valid anditcan opportunity to submit comments and provide has a right to prevent the disenfranchisement protecting theiramembers by ensuring that they be counted under Pennsylvania cocktail hour to be followed by the Richardson, and Kharey Wise. safety,Onenergy development, publicare givenour input on the proposals. In response to the NAACP of its members. November 17, 2020, the youth. a “full and equal opportunity to exercise Election Code. [Hamm v. Boockvar] dinner There lawsuit, USPS hasand beenawards subject toceremonies. aggressive health, communications, the court granted the NAACP’s motion to intervene. their fundamental right to vote” – and because The Black Star News, The NAACP in Pennsylvania helpedwhich defeat focuses oversightwill in court its handling of election mail.by On November Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is 18, 2020, theand NAACP-Michigan be of musical entertainment of the core missions of the environment, interstate and that is one the Trump campaign’s efforts journalism, to make it harder on investigative has On October 27, 2020, D.C. District Court Judge Conference, in their role as a defendantorganization’s work. On November 12, 2020, a legendary radio talk showthehost for voters to vote by mail. The Trump campaign opera singer Cassandra Douglas State international Emmet Sullivan ordered the Post Office to been featured as a result of some if intervenor, asked the courtcommerce. to dismiss the court granted the NAACP’s motion to intervene. and 15, executive producer, radio DJ, attempted to remove ballot drop boxes in the andupdates from harmonica provide daily to the court on phenomenon mail lawsuit. The NAACP argued that it should be On November 2020, the Trump campaign its news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is state, require signature matching for mailed delivery data, lawyersGalison. from the administration songwriter, music recording dismissed because 1) the campaign could have William David Dinkins is amendedpoet, its lawsuit to a more narrow claim that ballots, remove a county residency requirement for York Daily News, The New York leading and ofDemocratic-heavy will appear daily before the judge, and sweeps assertedathese claimsdeveloper before Election Dayfounder or counties violated the law by writerpoll watchers, and allow campaign poll watchers artist and producer, rapper, honored for Lifetime Achievement and other measures have been put in place to Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s during the counting of the ballots, preventing the largest The Peebles Co., the nation’s allowing mail-in ballots to be cured if they were and community activist.while He beganat drop boxes. A Trump-appointed judge dismissed — hegetwas Newofficials York by City’s first disenfranchisement of hundreds of thousands ensure ballots to election the state going to be disqualified for a technicality Content African American-owned real claims finding thatmagazine. there was no proof that deadlines. Thereafter Judge Sullivan issued and alsoof voters in Wayne County and 2) the campaign his career as adidradio DJ insuch Buffalothe African American mayor Republican-heavy counties not provide Pennsylvania’s measures would lead to election estate firmconcrete with evidence $3.5 billion worthnotice. [Donald several additional orders, including orders that: 1) does not provide any of fraud Past Black Star honorees J. Trump for President v. Boockvar] at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s fraud. [Trump for President v.News welcomed Nelson Mandela to theor illegal activities but instead relies on vague Boockvar] express network must be used for election mail; of properties under development The NAACP in Pennsylvania filed a friend of have included: Gil Noble (Like It been a talk show host at WBLS and The NAACP in Georgia moved to intervene city after his releaseand inprocessed 1990. 2) all mail ballots be postmarked anecdotes. The NAACP recognizes that if the the court brief to ensure that all valid mail-in or management — he was one in a lawsuit that would disenfranchise Black Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad for delivery no later than the morning after they WLIBballots radio in New York City. He campaign’s relief was granted, Michigan would and absentee in Montgomery County, Rep. Charles Rangel, perform also honored lawsuit was filed by an individual ofpresidential the pioneering developerswho are mailed; 3) USPS must immediately a choose its electors without counting O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also are hascounted. The a Friday Trump nightcampaign radio talk voters. A Pennsylvania in federal court to challenge the inclusion of Lifetime Achievement, sweep offor certain USPS facilities “to ensure thathas no the voteshelped of nearly turn half ofaround its Black citizens, and revitalize sued to try to use a technicality to prevent voters Voza Rivers (New Heritage show on WBAI. absentee ballots in the 2020 general electionTheatre), ballots have been in held up and thatsince any identified that this would be a constitutional served Congress 1971. He and is argues from exercising their constitutional right to vote the once-blighted Anacostia results. On November 18, 2020, the NAACPErrol Louis (NY1 News), Amel ballots are immediately sent out for delivery” and violation. [Trump for President v. Benson] in a safeHonoree and secure manner. The Lamb, campaignfounderGeorgia State Conference moved to intervene Sabrina a recipient Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, D.C. report back to the courtof by The 4:30 p.m. the same Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William The NAACP in Michigan moved to intervene is arguingofthat ballots should be discarded in order to protect one of its core missions of World of Money, is a ifchampion helping every saveplant soldiers behind day; 4) instructed manager in Texasenemyin a lawsuit A champion of African-American that would disenfranchise Black they do not include the voters’ address on the Pollard (Medgar Evers College), ensuring its members are given a full and equal to perform an during immediate sweep of the facility of financial literacy for voters. Two Michigan voters filed a lawsuit in line the Korean War.to Pennsylvania’s election lawyouth-does not she opportunity economic empowerment Peebles’ declaration. is to exercise their fundamental Herm Edwards (NY Jets),right Nayaba identify any ballots postmarked by Election Day federal court to stop the final certification of include this requirement and the Montgomery teaches knowledge about handlingto vote. On November 19, 2020, a request for a contemplating a possible run for NYC and haveRep. such ballots sentClarke out for delivery by Yvette is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna election results until there is an independent audit Board ofmoney, Elections has already ruled thatplanning. it is temporary restraining order to halt certification budgeting and 5:00 p.m. and report back to the court by 1pm mayor in 2017. to investigate all claims of voter fraud in Wayne not required. The Trump campaign is attempting member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), was denied. [Lin Wood v Raffensperger] on November 5; and 5) required that “all USPS County and to certify the legality of all absentee to disenfranchise 600Crew, voters. On November 13, Dr. Rudy honoree, is one of The NAACP New Lillianin Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy Georgia moved to intervene facilities Representatives that serve a state with anfrom extended ballot Honoree Barbara Arnwine, ballots cast. On November 18, 2020, the NAACP-civil 2020, a state judge rejected the lawsuit. [Trump in a lawsuit that would disenfranchise Black receipt deadline shall, until deadline passes the nation’s leading educators. He’s York whose 9ththat district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local Michigan State Conference to intervene rights lawyer, is moved a champion of for President v. Montgomery County Board of voters in eight counties. A group of voters filed perform a morning ballot sweep…and a mid-to-late in order to protect one of its core missions of Elections] much of central Brooklyn. Before 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic afternoon ballot sweep that is timed to ensure its members are given a full and equal The NAACP filedCity a friend of the court brief Congress she ensuring Action Network), that any entering identified local ballots caninbe2007, delivered of The University of New minority groups — the emerging opportunity to exercise their fundamental right -- cont'dand onmany Pageothers. 3
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N AT ION AL New Study: B L AC K G I R L S O U T P E R F O R M P E E R S RULING OUR EXPERIENCES, INC. (ROX) released its latest national research report, Girls, Diversity and The Future, which reflects insights from 10,678 5th through 12th grade girls. This study by the leading national experts on programming and research for girls offers a glimpse into the world of today's girls and their unique beliefs, behaviors and barriers across demographics. Research findings include: Despite embodying key traits of leadership, Black girls face a world that does not embrace their leadership in school, government or corporate America. Nationally, Black women make up just 4% of school superintendents, 8% of our country’s elected officials and there are no Black female CEOs among Fortune 500 companies. This research indicates that when compared to their peers, Black girls are the most equipped and eager to lead. They confidently embrace being in charge and are not afraid to express their opinions, yet they face barriers to leadership roles. Black girls have higher rates of confidence and belief in their academic abilities compared to their peers, yet are the most likely to experience harsher school discipline. Black girls experience an increase in confidence from elementary school to middle school, while all other groups of girls experience a sharp decline. Similarly, Black girls
are more likely to believe they are smart enough for their dream job compared to their same-age peers, and 81% report that their teachers treat them like they are smart. Despite all of this, Black girls are more likely to have negative discipline-related experiences in school. When girls of color are in the majority, they are more likely to believe they are smart and capable than if they are one of few people of color in a situation. While race does not exclusively predict the way girls feel about their academic abilities and opportunities, attending school and learning with others who are like them contributes to a sense of efficacy and ability. When girls of color are not learning alongside other girls of color, they feel less confident in their abilities and opportunities. “Our data reinforces that we live in a society that does not always openly embrace girls and women who share their opinions, as this can often be viewed as aggressive. Sadly, this reality is amplified for Black girls,” said Dr. Sibyl West, Co-author of the study, Co-director of the Frederick Douglass Institute for Intercultural Research and Associate Professor of Counselor Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. “When a Black girl speaks her mind, she can be labeled as hostile, disagreeable or rude. Her opinions and ideas can be
dismissed or ignored more often than her peers. This data is showing us that Black girls are ready to lead and possess key traits and characteristics of leadership, but face a world that doesn’t embrace their leadership.” Dr. Lisa Hinkelman, Founder/CEO of Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) and Co-author of this study said, “We have a responsibility to seize this critical moment in history. In Vice PresidentElect Kamala Harris, little girls everywhere finally have the chance
to see a woman of color in the White House. Now it’s time for each of us to identify what we should be doing individually, programmatically and systemically to address the disparities surrounding leadership opportunities for girls of color.” ROX is looking to partner with schools, churches and organizations to share this data and discuss evidence based ways to support Black girls. Please email info@rulingourexperiences.com to partner.
#Bl a ck Te c h Fu t u re s A nn oun ce s In augural #Blac kTec hPolicy Week #BlackTechFutures Research Institute opens registration for its first-ever #BlackTechPolicy Week. Funded in part by an Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation Knowledge Challenge award, granted to Stillman College School of Business and Dr. Fallon Wilson, #BlackTechPolicy Week will explore the challenges and opportunities municipalities and organizations encounter when building equitable tech policies, and the impact of these policies on Black lives. Amid the U.S. presidential transition period, #BlackTechPolicy Week places Black lives at the epicenter of AI ethics, EdTech, VC investments into tech startups, privacy, bridging the digital divide, and more. The week-long engagement will bring together technologists, higher learning institutions, professional and affinity groups, entrepreneurship organizations, government officials, community organizers, private foundations, tech startups, urban planners, faith leaders, and local organizations.
"By placing the value of Black futures at the center of technological development and advancement, #BlackTechPolicy Week will serve as the birthing ground for innovative policies and strategic networking," said Dr. Fallon Wilson, Co-Founder of #BlackTechFutures Research Institute. "Our goal is to unite scholars, practitioners, and community
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activists in a dialogue—a movement— to grow tech equity at the hyper-local level."
Launched in 2020, the #BlackTechFutures Research Institute serves as a long-term educational initiative housed at Stillman College,
a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). The institute is positioned to build a national network of city-based researchers and practitioners researching sustainable local Black tech ecosystems. The outcomes of this work are to develop a national public data archive and create actionable policy recommendations at municipal, state, and national levels. #BlackTechPolicy Week serves as the institute's first
public engagement opportunity. For nearly 150 years, Stillman College has been a creator and advocate of inclusive and equitable environments for Black people. Dr. Cynthia Warrick, Stillman’s first female President, continues that legacy in the 21st
Century through innovation and technology. "To proactively increase the participation of Black technologists, it is imperative we identify, engage, educate, connect, and support scholars and practitioners in technology," states Isaac McCoy, Dean of the School of Business at Stillman College. "Not only is this work important, but it's critical
November 19, 2020 - November 25, 2020
to the equitable advancement of Black people in a digital world."
#BlackTechPolicy Week includes three panels, free and open to the public, where participants will hear directly from Black tech leaders in multiple sectors. This year's sessions include: A National Black Tech Policy Agenda: December 1, 2020, at 6:00 pm/CST Black Public Interest Technologists: December 3, 2020, at 6:00 pm/CST Organizing Black Tech Communities Online: December 4, 2020 at 6:00 pm/ CST Supporting Local Black Tech Ecosystems: December 5, 2020, at 10 am/CST Participants will hear from the nation's top technologists, politicians, entrepreneurs, community organizers, medical professionals, and more. This year's #BlackTechPolicy Week speakers include: Rev. Leah Daughtry, Black Church PAC Clint Odom, National Urban League Dr. Nicol Turner Lee, Brookings Institute Chris Lewis, Public Knowledge Dr. Andre Brock, Georgia Institute of Technology Maurita Coley, Multicultural Media, Telecom and Internet Council (MMTC) To register and learn more about the institute, visit blacktechfutures.com.
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NEWS
afrotainment Opens a 30,000 sf. DIGITAL TELEVISION STUDIO
AFROTAINMENT, the leader in polycultural Black content in North America opens a 30,000 sf. Digital Television Studio conveniently located in the heart of Orlando's tourism district, less than 2 miles from Universal Studios Florida. The new multimillion dollar facility is primarily designed to accommodate daily productions of AFRO TV, a network launched and supported by Comcast in 2018. The state of the art facility located at 7220 International Drive boasts a 220 seat auditorium; 2 versatile TV studios with live audience; a 180-degree cyclorama; a music recording studio; 2 master control rooms; an event hall and other television production support
rooms. “This major strategic investment during these trying times reiterates our commitment to produce and broadcast high quality multicultural Black content,” said Yves Bollanga, Afrotainment Founder & CEO. Engineered to reduce complexities, time to market and costs inherent with production of high quality digital content, the fully equipped television studio is a producer's dream.
environment. Visit www.afrotainment.us for more information or watch AFRO TV on
Comcast Xfinity Channel 1623. Source: Afrotainment
As part of its corporate social responsibility Afrotainment intends to make the facility available to seasoned producers looking to create high quality digital content in a controlled
NAACP OPPOSES FIF TH WHITE NOMINEE TO SEGREGATED APPEALS COURT Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, issued the following statement in opposition to the
nomination of Thomas Kirsch to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit: “Today, the NAACP sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee strongly opposing the nomination of Thomas
LACK
OF
Kirsch to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals and calling upon Senators to refuse to participate in the hearing on
his nomination. Mr. Kirsch is Donald Trump’s fifth white nominee to the only all-white appellate court in the nation. Mr. Kirsch’s appointment would perpetuate the segregation of this appellate court, which covers Illinois,
RESPONSE
IN
DEATH
of
the Charles family’s concerns by law enforcement and the refusal to issue an amber alert are responsibilities that they failed to implement in a time-sensitive situation involving a minor. As more information about this case continues to unravel, we expect and demand that the family is presented
VOTING RIGHTS CASES ATTEMPT
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Selby, a Black woman, to this very seat in 2016. But the Republican-led Senate blocked her confirmation and kept the seat open for Trump to fill with Amy Coney Barrett. The Senate must not allow Trump to install another white judge in this seat, and especially not this late in his presidency. We are 65 days away from a new president and a new Senate. PresidentElect Joe Biden and the Senate of the 117th Congress should decide who sits on the Seventh Circuit. We urge each and every Senator on the Judiciary Committee to refuse to participate in continuing the segregation of this court.”
TEEN ‘HEARTWRENCHING’
The unusual and untimely death of 15-year old Quawan “Bobby” Charles is heart-wrenching and infuriating. The lack of transparency and urgency put forth by the authorities in Louisiana is a moral failing in the face of a family looking for answers to a loved one’s suspicious death. The dismissal of
a lawsuit in federal court to stop Georgia officials from certifying the results of the 2020 presidential election unless the results from eight counties are excluded. The more than 1.4 million votes cast in those counties account for more than half of the votes in the state and the lawsuit claims that there was fraud only in the presidential election. The NAACP-Georgia State Conference moved to intervene as a defendant on November 14, 2020 because it believes it has a right to prevent the disenfranchisement of its 10,000 members. On November 16, 2020, the plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit. [Brooks v Mahoney] The NAACP in Georgia helped prevent the purge of more than 14,000 voters just before the election. Republican operatives sought to challenge the validity of over 14,000 voters’ registrations in Fulton County, Georgia. The operatives filed a mandamus action to compel the Fulton Board of Elections to hold a hearing on the contested registrations. The NAACP moved to intervene to defend the registrations, and the court dismissed the mandamus petition. Although the court denied the NAACP’s motion to intervene,
Wisconsin, and Indiana and presides over 7.5 million people of color. The Seventh Circuit lost its only judge of color to retirement early in the Trump administration. Instead of promoting diversity on this court, Trump appointed four white judges, including Amy Coney Barrett. Now that Judge Barrett has been elevated to the Supreme Court, Trump wants to install another white judge in her seat. Trump’s judicial appointees have been almost exclusively white. This lack of diversity has devastated the federal bench. In the year 2020, no federal appellate court should lack judges of color. Adding insult to injury is that President Obama nominated Myra
TO
it relied heavily on the NAACP’s briefing in dismissing the petitioner’s case. [Schmitz v. Fulton County Board of Registration and Elections] The NAACP in Wisconsin moved to intervene in a lawsuit that would disenfranchise Black voters in three counties. Four voters filed a lawsuit in federal court to stop Wisconsin officials from certifying the results of the 2020 presidential election unless the results from three counties – Milwaukee, Dane and Menominee – are excluded. The NAACP-Wisconsin State Conference moved to intervene as a defendant on November 14, 2020 because it believes it has a right to prevent the disenfranchisement of its 4,000 members. On November 16, 2020, the plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit. [Langenhorst v. Pecore] The NAACP in Texas helped protect Harris County’s curbside voting practices. In Texas, Republican candidates and activists attempted to toss out nearly 127,000 ballots cast by drivethrough voting in Harris County. A federal judge rejected the case on the grounds that the plaintiffs did not show they would be harmed if the ballots were counted. If those votes were rejected, it
with nothing less than justice from those entrusted with managing this case. Our hearts go out to those affected by this tragic loss. We stand in solidarity with the family and those seeking justice for Quawan and will remain vigilant to ensure the truth is reached.
DISCARD BLACK VOTES would have disenfranchised approximately 10% of all in-person ballots cast during early voting in Harris County. [Hotze v. Hollins] The NAACP in Texas sued to make polling places safer. In Texas, a court challenge was brought to the exemption from the state’s mask mandate for polling places – including for poll workers. The exclusion was challenged as discriminatory against Black and Latino voters who are more likely to be harmed by the coronavirus. The challenge was defeated by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, overruling a lower court judge. [Mi Familia Vota; Texas State Conference of the NAACP; Guadulpe Torres v. Abbott] The NAACP in Alabama argued that curbside voting should be allowed to keep voters safe during the coronavirus pandemic. While the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals held that counties could offer curbside voting if they choose, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that it was not allowed. While Alabama law doesn’t provide for the practice, it doesn’t prohibit it either. [People First v. Merrill]
November 19, 2020 - November 25, 2020
(cont'd from cover)
Founded in 1909 in response to the ongoing violence against Black people around the country, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is the largest and most pre-eminent civil rights organization in the nation. We have over 2,200 units and branches across the nation, along with well over 2M activists. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. The NAACP is a c4 organization (contributions are not tax-deductible), and we have a partner c3 organization known as NAACP Empowerment Programs (contributions are fully tax-deductible as allowed by the IRS). NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but separated in 1957 to become a completely separate entity. It is recognized as the nation’s first civil and human rights law organization and shares our commitment to equal rights.
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COMMENTARY
CBC Congratulates
PRESIDENT-ELECT BIDEN Congratulations to PresidentElect Joe Biden and VicePresident Elect Kamala Harris on your historic victory today. You fought for the soul of America. Today marks a new dawn in our country and the beginning of our journey on the road to repair after four long years of repressive policies towards communities of color.
and
VICE-PRESIDENT-ELECT HARRIS
backsliding is being experienced in different parts of the world, our ability to defend our democracy in the midst of unprecedented obstacles including voter suppression and COVID-19, is a
The Congressional Black Caucus is proud of our very own, Sen. Kamala Harris who will be the first woman Vice President and the first Black and South Asian Vice-President. Vice President-Elect will be the second member of the Congressional Black Caucus to ascend to the White House after President Barack Obama. A graduate of Howard University, an HBCU, and a Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a Black sorority, VP-Elect Kamala Harris is a product of these long-standing institutions in our community. We are confident that her zeal for improving the upward mobility of marginalized groups in America will continue to be a priority in this next phase. At a time when democratic
odds. As we waited for election results in key battleground states, Black Americans in cities such as Philadelphia, Atlanta, Milwaukee, and Detroit, overwhelmingly voted for President-Elect Biden and Vice-President Elect Harris. It was these cities that got us through the finish line. We show up every election season because to us there is nothing more important than leading this nation to its highest ideals: liberty and justice for all. Today’s victory is a testament to this.
Cropped official portrait of Vice President Joe Biden in his West Wing Office at the White House, Jan. 10, 2013. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann)
win for democracy everywhere. Black America's commitment to freedom and democracy runs so deep that even when we were denied the right to vote, we formed resistance movements to challenge discriminatory and racist laws. We marched, we stood in long lines, we beat the
Offical Press Photo for Vice-President-Elect Kamala Harris
The Congressional Black Caucus looks forward to working with this new Administration to increase the upward mobility of Black families in America.
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November 19, 2020 - November 25, 2020
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Stony Brook University/SUNY is an affirmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer. 20090337H
Serious memory loss isn’t part of normal aging.
Stony Brook Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease As the only center of its kind on Long Island, and one of only 10 such centers in New York State, we provide early diagnosis and help enhance the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Our team includes geriatric psychiatrists, a geriatrician, a neuropsychologist and social workers. And we have partners throughout Long Island to effectively serve you and your loved ones where you live.
For Physicians and Healthcare Providers
Alzheimer’s Disease Virtual Symposium Person-Centered Care: Therapeutic Strategies in Dementia Care for Improving Quality of Life and Caregiver Support.
Friday, Nov. 6 • 8 to 10 am To learn more/register: ceadlongisland.org
• • • • •
Assessment and diagnosis of memory loss Comprehensive, individualized care plans Management of complex cases Technical help Educational resources for difficult diagnoses
• Second opinions
For Family Members • • • •
Recommendations on resources and support Language assistance Clinical trials information Advocacy with and on behalf of caregivers
(631) 954-2323 • ceadlongisland.org This center is supported by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.
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November 19, 2020 - November 25, 2020
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EDUCAT ION P & G ’ S R O YA L O I L S Black women have historically been underrepresented in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce. P&G brands Royal Oils by Head & Shoulders and Gold Series from Pantene are determined to help change that by supporting the growth and development of future Black female STEM-focused innovators through a new initiative. Together with CVS this fall, P&G will award $200,000 in scholarships to Black women pursuing a degree in STEM subjects at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and UNCF member schools, facilitated through long-time higher education partner UNCF (United Negro College Fund). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www. businesswire.com/news/ home/20201116005721/en/ The Rooted in Science scholarships will be administered by UNCF, an organization dedicated to helping as many talented, deserving Black men and women as possible get to and through college successfully. To apply for a scholarship, please visit https://uncf.org/scholarships. Applications will be open from November 15, 2020 through January 4, 2021, and recipients will be announced on January 28, 2021. There will be 16 scholarship recipients who will be awarded $5,000 a year for up to two years. Scholarship funds are intended to help college juniors and seniors with expenses associated with the pursuit of their degrees as 45.9% of Black students enrolled in fouryear public institutions complete their degrees in six years. This is partially because 65% of Black college students are independent, which means they must balance obtaining a degree with full-time work, family responsibilities and more. “Providing these resources to young, Black women studying STEM is deeply important to P&G as we hope to help further diversify the field and pave the way for future generations,” said Lela Coffey, Vice President P&G Multicultural Hair Care. “STEM and diversity are at the core of our brands and ensuring representation of Black women in these roles is essential for
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AND
G O L D S E R I E S SUPPORT BL ACK W OM E N
developing future innovations in beauty and personal care products that continue to support and reflect the needs of modern Black women.” Both P&G brands are #RootedinScience. Gold Series from Pantene was formulated by Black scientists, Ph.D.s, dermatologists and stylists, and provides superior moisture
benefits. Through decades of cutting-edge innovation and technology, plus on-going research of textured hair, Royal Oils by Head & Shoulders was tested on African-ancestry hair for scalp and hair health. Black men and women make up 11% of the U.S. workforce, but only hold 9% of the jobs in STEM. Even though our nation’s 100plus HBCUs make up just 3% of colleges and universities, they produce 27% of Black students with bachelor’s degrees in STEM fields. “During our 75 years of working together, P&G has been a very reliable partner for UNCF,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO, UNCF. “With the COVID-19 pandemic raging across the United States and hitting communities of color particularly hard, we need
as many students studying STEM fields as possible, as those careers are likely to be the bulk of our future pandemic frontliners—our future doctors, nurses, teachers and technologists. This new scholarship program helps fill a growing gap that HBCU students and other Black students have often fallen behind in due to a lack of funds. Thank you, P&G, for helping to open more doors to
better futures for us all.” You can stop by your local CVS to learn more about the scholarships and Royal Oils and Gold Series products. A B O U T R O YA L O I L S B Y HEAD & SHOULDERS Developed specifically for textured hair by a team of Black scientists, Royal Oils by Head & Shoulders provides expertly designed scalp relief and luxuriously moisturized hair for all natural, relaxed, curly and coily crowns. ABOUT GOLD SERIES F R O M PA N T E N E Gold Series from Pantene is a breakthrough line designed to provide strength and moisture for women with relaxed, natural, or transitioning hair. This superior care and styling line was co-created with scientists,
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IN
STEM
stylists, and dermatologists who understand the unique needs of textured hair. Each product in the Gold Series collection is powered by Pro-V blends and protective conditioning and repair agents formulated to work together to improve moisture, strength, elasticity, smoothness, and shine. ABOUT PROCTER & GAMBLE P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Lenor®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http:// www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands. ABOUT UNCF UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, supports and strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20% of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized trademark, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Source: Procter & Gamble
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ENTER TAINMENT
BR O W N SUGAR
BROWN SUGAR, the popular subscription streaming service from Bounce, will feature both a curated collection and popular returning titles bringing early Christmas cheer this month. November is a great time to catch up on all the seasons of Bounce's celebrated original shows. Brown Sugar is home to all seven seasons of In The Cut, starring Dorien Wilson (The Parkers, Dream On) and Kellita Smith (The Bernie Mac Show, The First Family) who were joined by TV veterans Mark Curry (Hanging With Mr. Cooper) and Kim Coles (Living Single) in the most recent season; Family Time, Bounce's longest-running original series, starring Omar Gooding, Jr. and Angell Conwell as a couple dealing with all the good and the bad that comes with being empty-nesters; and the hit drama Saints & Sinners which centers around
Is
Bringing S eason's Gree t i n gs This November
the pursuit of power set against the backdrop of a large Southern church. Fan favorites returning to Brown Sugar in November include Youngblood, the '70s street gang drama starring Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs and Bryan O'Dell, and Christmas in Compton, starring Omar Gooding.
Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Chromecast, Comcast Xfinity X1, Amazon Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android TV, Windows/ Xbox, Android and Apple smartphones and tablets and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. There is a free 7-day initial trial period for subscribers with a
“THERAPY for BLACK GIRLS,” Joins The
Licensed Psychologist, Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, announced today that her wildly popular mental health podcast, “Therapy for Black Girls,” will join the iHeart Podcast Network. The podcast, which has amassed more than 12 million downloads and has listeners in 196 countries, is a favorite among Black women committed to mental health and
personal development. Listen to the official trailer now on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are available. Each Wednesday, a new episode of the podcast will explore topics that help Black women prioritize their mental
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health, tap into invaluable resources, and break down the many stigmas related to mental health. Dr. Joy is often joined by expert guests to discuss topics like dealing with grief, managing anxiety, making friends as an adult, and setting boundaries in relationships. “I am excited about the growth that will come from our partnership with the
iHeartPodcast Network,” said Dr. Joy. "I want the podcast to help as many Black women as possible. My goal for Therapy for Black Girls has always been to use it as a platform to have important conversations not only about mental
retail price of $3.99/month thereafter. Visit www.BrownSugar.com for more information. Bounce and Brown Sugar are both a part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).
iHeart PODCAST NETWORK
illness, but also about mental wellness.” Listeners have frequently commented that the podcast has been helpful during the pandemic. “Therapy for Black Girls” offers an opportunity for listeners to realize they are not alone in their struggles and helps them learn strategies to better understand and manage their emotions during difficult times. Fans of the podcast also enjoy episodes dedicated to breaking down what’s happening in some of their favorite television shows or films. Listeners can tune in to iHeartRadio to binge classic episodes from the show’s archives including recent episodes that have covered some of the relationship difficulties portrayed in season four of HBO’s hit series “INSECURE” and more. “It is critical that mental health content is shared in a way that is relevant and accessible to the community it is intended to serve. I believe this is why the podcast has been so successful, because our community really sees themselves reflected in the content,” said Dr. Joy. Dr. Joy Harden Bradford is a Licensed Psychologist, Speaker, Media Personality and serves as the Resident Psychologist for O, The Oprah Magazine. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana, her Master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Arkansas State, and her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from The University of Georgia. Dr. Joy is a member of the Advisory Board for the Crisis Text Line and also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Her work focuses on making mental health topics more relevant and accessible for Black women and she delights in using pop culture to illustrate psychological concepts. She has worked with companies like HBO, Viacom/ CBS, & Facebook developing projects
November 19, 2020 - November 25, 2020
and programming designed to merge entertainment with mental health and wellness. Dr. Joy started the Therapy for Black Girls platform in 2014 with the goal of growing and sustaining an engaged community centered on the mental health needs of Black women and girls. This is done by creating resources, content, and experiences designed to present information in a way that feels relevant and accessible. The platform now includes the weekly podcast, a therapist directory of over 2400 therapists across the country and in Canada, and an active community of over 600,000 women across social media platforms. For more information, please contact Kia Kelly-Felty, kia@ therapyforblackgirls.com by email or visit the website at therapyforblackgirls. com.
iHeartMedia (NASDAQ: IHRT) is the number one audio company in the United States, reaching nine out of 10 Americans every month – and with its quarter of a billion monthly listeners, has a greater reach than any other media company in the U.S. The company’s leadership position in audio extends across multiple platforms, including more than 850 live broadcast stations in over 160 markets nationwide; through its iHeartRadio digital service available across more than 250 platforms and 2,000 devices; through its influencers; social; branded iconic live music events; other digital products and newsletters; and podcasts as the #1 commercial podcast publisher. iHeartMedia also leads the audio industry in analytics, targeting and attribution for its marketing partners with its SmartAudio product, using data from its massive consumer base. Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.
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BUSINE S S FILM NEW YORK AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL GOES VIRTUAL Presented by FILM AT LINCOLN CENTER and AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL, INC., the 27th edition of the NYAFF runs online December 2-6 Under the banner “Streaming Rivers: The Past into the Present,” the NEW YORK AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL (NYAFF) returns virtually December 2-6 with a spotlight on the cinema of two nations: Nigeria and the Sudan. Presented by Film at Lincoln Center (FLC) and African Film Festival, Inc. (AFF), this year’s regional NYAFF will screen six features and eight short films in the FLC Virtual Cinema, as AFF celebrates its 30th anniversary. The festival will transport audiences to the Sudan and Nigeria, two nations whose film industries were disrupted in their nascency — in Nigeria by an economic decline in the late 1970s and early 1980s; in Sudan by the dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir, whose 30-year grip on the country was ended by the 2019 uprising. In recent years, Sudan’s film industry has been revived by an emerging crop of filmmakers, who are also dedicated to restoring the works of the veterans on whose shoulders they stand. Nollywood can claim the mantle of being Africa’s homegrown film industry, which has influenced filmmakers globally and provided the template for other nations to jump-start their own nascent motion picture businesses. The event includes films from some of each nation’s trailblazing directors and latest wave of filmmakers. NYAFF will present two of esteemed Sudanese filmmaker Ibrahim Shaddad’s brilliant works: Hunting Party and Human. Suhaib Gasmelbari’s acclaimed documentary Talking About Trees captures the efforts of Shaddad and fellow friends and retired Sudanese filmmakers Manar Al Hilo, Suleiman Mohamed Ibrahim and Altayeb Mahdi — each of whom was trained abroad and whose work was suppressed for decades by Islamist censorship after the 1989 coup — to reopen an outdoor cinema. Among the film’s 12 prizes is the Panorama Audience Award at the 2019 Berlin Film Festival and the Documentary Award at the 2020 Palm Springs International Film Festival. The Opening Night film is Amjad Abu Alala’s arresting drama You Will Die at 20, winner of the Lion of the Future “Luigi de Laurentiis” Award for a Debut Film at the 2019 Venice Film Festival and Sudan’s first-ever entry for Best International Feature Film, for the upcoming 93rd Academy Awards. In the film, a young man, who the village’s holy man has prophesied will die as he reaches his second decade, turns 19. Nollywood, the world’s most prolific film industry after Bollywood, was born out of the resourcefulness of creatives working despite economic challenges. NYAFF’s Centerpiece film is the 40th anniversary screening of Kadara (“Destiny”), the debut
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work of one such filmmaker, the late Adeyemi Afolayan (known as Ade Love), considered one of the fathers of Nollywood. Afolayan wrote and stars in the humorous film, which captures the rivalry between a handsome, charming farmer and a rich brute as they compete in a wrestling contest to prove their worthiness for the hand of the kingdom’s beautiful princess. In Three Thieves, Udoka Oyeka’s Nigerian comedy, three friends hired to commit a simple theft end up as accidental kidnappers — all while being pursued by the police and the robber whose job they took. Filmed over four years, Marwa Zein’s documentary Khartoum Offside follows the Sudanese Women’s Football Team as they defy a ban imposed by Sudan's Islamist military government against women playing soccer — and in doing so, Zein herself defies the ban against women making movies. The film won Best Documentary at the 2019 Africa Movie Academy Awards, as well as Best Documentary at the Carthage Film Festival (JCC). Set in South London, Ngozi Onwurah’s Shoot the Messenger — winner of the Dennis Potter Screenwriting Award and two BAFTA TV Awards — stars David Oyelowo as Joe, a teacher whose life spirals out of control after he is falsely accused of hitting a student and branded a racist by the local Black community. Another breakout star from this film is Daniel Kaluuya. “Art generally reflects our reality and the evolution of our world,” said AFF Executive Director and NYAFF Founder Mahen Bonetti. “While our programs might highlight the challenges Africa faces, they also illuminate her greatness and her vast contribution to our global cultures!” The festival also includes a shorts program featuring Zein’s A Game, an adaptation of the Italian short story “Let’s Play a Game,” depicting a confrontation between a divorced woman and her young daughter; Onwurah’s Coffee Colored Children, which speaks to the current moment with its story of two siblings of mixed heritage who, faced with racist taunts, try to scrub their blackness away; and Lande Yoosuf’s Love in Submission, in which a meeting between two Black Muslim women brings a big revelation. Sarra Idris’s My Sister, Sara captures Sudanese activist and writer Sara Elhassan in conversation with her brother, ESPN NBA Analyst and TV personality Amin Elhassan, about the 2019 Sudanese revolution and her ongoing activism through social media. Troublemaker, by Olive Nwosu, tells the story of a 10-year-old’s loss of innocence as he hurts his grandfather,
reanimating his elder relative’s traumatic memories of the Biafra war. The program is rounded out by Adé Sultan Sangodoyin’s A Cemetery of Doves, a film about a teenager coming to terms with his sexuality. This special edition of NYAFF will also showcase a fantastic digital dance piece titled Forever (Brother’s Keeper), choreographed and performed by self-taught Nigerian twins, the Ebinum Brothers, in addition to a jam session of catchy Afrobeat tunes spun by the popular DJ mOma at a gorgeous spot in Zanzibar. This year, AFF is celebrating three decades of promoting African culture through the moving image. Through its signature film festival, traveling series, community engagement programs, outdoor screenings, and new streaming service, the 501(c)(3) brings audiences around the world authentic African cinema from today’s leading and emerging directors, as well as the works of the continent and diaspora’s most esteemed auteurs. Virtual tickets are $12, and go on sale on Monday, November 23 at noon. See more and save with the NYAFF AllAccess Pass for just $60 (a $96 value). Film at Lincoln Center members save an additional 20% on individual rentals and the all-access pass. Learn more at filmlinc.org/AFF2020. The programs of AFF are made possible by the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts, New York State Council on the Arts, NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, Bradley Family Foundation, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, New York Community Trust, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Communities of Color Nonprofit Stabilization Fund, Domenico Paulon Foundation, Motion Picture Enterprises, Manhattan Portage, Black Hawk Imports and Royal Air Maroc. FILMS & SYNOPSES You Will Die at 20 Amjad Abu Alala, 2020, Sudan/France/ Egypt/Germany/Norway/Qatar, 105m Arabic with English subtitles
Shortly after Muzamil’s birth, the village’s holy man predicts that he will die at age 20. Muzamil’s father can’t stand the curse and leaves home. His mother, the overly protective Sakina, raises her son alone. One day, Muzamil turns 19. Talking About Trees Suhaib Gasmelbari, 2019, Sudan/France/ Germany/Chad/Qatar, 93m Arabic and Russian with English subtitles
Ibrahim Shaddad, Manar Al Hilo, Suleiman Mohamed Ibrahim, and
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Altayeb Mahdi have been filmmakers and friends for more than 45 years. In 1989, they formed the Sudanese Film Group, an independent collective that was suspended soon after its founding when a military coup established an Islamist dictatorship in Sudan. Nearly three decades later, they’ve reunited to resurrect their old dream: to make cinema a reality in Sudan. Talking About Trees chronicles their efforts to revive a defunct movie theater in the city of Omdurman in the face of religious censorship and inefficient bureaucracy. Khartoum Offside Marwa Zein, 2019, Sudan/Norway/ Denmark, 76m Arabic with English subtitles
A group of exceptional young women in Khartoum are determined to play football professionally, in spite of the ban imposed by Sudan’s Islamist authorities. In Khartoum Offside, Marwa Zein captures their unwavering, fearless and often humorous struggle to be officially recognized as Sudan’s National Women's Team. Through her intimate portrait of these women, filmed over a number of years, we witness their hopes, their disappointments, and their unwavering grit. Two Films by Ibrahim Shaddad (68m) Insan Ibrahim Shaddad, 1994, Sudan, 27m In this dialogue-less film distinguished by its innovative use of sound, Shaddad paints a dramatic and powerful portrait of the trials and alienation of a Sudanese villager who moves to a large city. Jagdpartie Ibrahim Shaddad, 1964, Germany, 41m German with English subtitles
Made as a graduation project at the German Academy of Film Art in Potsdam-Babelsberg, Shaddad’s seminal film is a Western-inspired treatise on racism. Shot in a forest in Brandenburg, it portrays a white mob’s hunt for a black farmworker. Kadara Ade Love (Adeyemi Afolayan), 1980, Nigeria, 94m Yoruba and Hausa with English subtitles
Tradition dictates that the suitor of the beautiful princess of a kingdom will be decided by a wrestling contest open to all. In Ade Love’s charming, swooning tale, a handsome and endearing farmer and a brutish man of considerable wealth face off for the princess’s hand. Three Thieves Udoka Oyeka, 2020, Nigeria, 108m In this hilarious comedy of mistaken identities, three discontented friends are contracted to commit a seemingly simple theft. But complications arise when a young girl slips into their car, turning their robbery into an unwitting
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E VENT S
H B C U ’ S B E N E F I T F R O M C H A M PIONS FOR C H A NGE Bennett College is delighted to announce its been counted among 11 historically Black colleges and universities to receive a donation from Bleacher Report’s House of Highlights. On Friday, Nov. 27, at 3 p.m., ET Turner Sports will present at Capital One’s The Match: Champions for Change, a premier golf event featuring the World Golf Hall of Famer Phil Mickelson and NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley going against three-time NBA Champion Stephen Curry and twotime Super Bowl Champion Peyton Manning at Stone Canyon Golf Club in Oro Valley, Ariz. The live event coverage will be available on TNT with live companion content leading up to and during the event through Bleacher Report and the B/R app. Before the action on the course, B/R will tee off the day’s coverage at 1 p.m., with the House of Highlights Showdown from Stone Canyon Golf Club’s famous 19th hole. The pre-event competition, streamed live exclusively on the B/R app and hosted by Marcelas Howard, will feature social media influencers Jesser, Kristopher London, Tristan Jass, and MMG in a closest-to-the-
pin contest with the winner walking away with a $100,000 prize. House of Highlights will make donations to Bennett College and Spelman College in association with the preevent exhibition. Capital One’s The Match: Champions for Change aims to contribute and uniquely highlight diversity, equality, and inclusion through donations to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) while raising awareness and spotlighting opportunities for diversity equality in sports. All four players have previously supported diversity and inclusion initiatives throughout their careers, which has led to them teaming up for this event. “We are so appreciative that Turner Sports and the Bleacher Report have chosen to recognize and uplift HBCUs at this time,” said Suzanne Walsh, president of Bennett College. “The financial support to Bennett College is a timely investment in the future of Black women who aspire to be champions for change.” In addition to Bennett College, Capital One’s The Match:
Champions for Change will uniquely contribute toward and highlight diversity, equality, and inclusion at several other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs),
New Orleans, and Lane College (Manning) to be the recipients of their donations. For nearly 150 years, young women have found Bennett College
including Morehouse College, Howard University, Alabama A&M, Hampton University and WinstonSalem State University, primarily helping to fund golf or sports journalism programs. Additionally, the four golfers have selected Jackson State (Mickelson), Tuskegee (Barkley), and Howard (Curry), along with Grambling State, Southern University at
to be the ideal place to foster their dreams and ideas. Today, Bennett is preparing contemporary women to be well-educated, productive professionals and informed participating citizens; and enlightened parents amid a very active renaissance. For more information, visit https://www. bennett.edu/about/history/.
C O A L I T I O N A d v o c at e s B u y B l a c k S h o p p i n g W e e k e n d
TheBlackMall.com (TBM) joins a broad coalition of Blackowned business supporters in coordinating Chicago’s first-ever Buy Black Weekend starting Friday, November 27, 2020. The campaign will drive traffic and revenue Chicago area Black-owned businesses, particularly in areas hit hard by the effects of Coronavirus and civil unrest in recent months. “2020 is a year of major change, making it an open portal for Black owned businesses to finally gain the spotlight,” declared TBM
CEO Casseiopia Uhuru. “As businesses prepare for the most popular shopping time of the year, it’s important that we shine a light on Black businesses, their products and services as we endeavor to address the root economic and access issues that plague our communities.” TBM is an aggregator of black owned businesses that helps them promote, sell and grow via our online business directory, our online and brick and mortar marketplace and our new fulfillment center Making it EASY to Build & Buy Black!
Featured events during Buy Black Weekend include: Friday, 11/27: Virtual Buy Black Friday with the Best Black Vendors in Art • Jewelry • Skin Care • Apparel • Books & More Saturday, 11/28: Virtual Black Business Saturday featuring Chicago’s Most Blacknificent business owners Sunday, 11/29: 4th Annual TBM Awards: Honoring the Best in Black Business Monday. 11/30: Black Monday - Visit TheBlackMall.com for CRAZY deals and discounts on the dopest
Black Owned Products
This special weekend is being organized with our amazing partners: Afrika Enterprises, Art & Design by V, Bean Soup Times, Black Chicago Eats, the Black Culture Collective (Producers of Black Culture Week), CBW Productions, Chi AF Queen, Entrepreneur Success Program (ESP), Pow Biz Conference, Red Level Entertainment, Steps Inc. Consulting, The Blacknificent Mile 79th Street Corridor, The Plant Based Afrikan, The National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, The United Black American Progress Association, WDB Marketing. To help track the impact of supporting these businesses, TBM has partnered with Black Ink Group, LLC and ThinkBox 312 to make available the BlackCoin mobile app to both apple and android device users who can locate businesses listed in the TBM directory within the app, access promotions and special offers and scan their receipts to be totaled and tracked by the users. BlackCoin also keeps a running tab of spending by all its users on their http://BlackCoin. app web site.
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November 19, 2020 - November 25, 2020
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HE ALTH
B u i l d i n g a M O R E D I V E R S E G E N E R AT I O N Caring, understanding, and love are universal attributes that transcend every boundary and are basic requirements for keeping our pets happy and healthy. Yet participation in the very field responsible for this key task is far from universal, with African-Americans making up fewer than 3 percent of all veterinarians in the United States. To help build a more diverse, equitable, and an inclusive new generation of medical professionals committed to caring for our animals, American Humane, the country's first national humane organization, has created the "American Humane Scholars Fund" to support students of color in their quest to become veterinarians. An inaugural grant of $40,000, sponsored by leading animal health company Zoetis, was made this week to the historic Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. The announcement was broadcast nationwide on Monday during the American Humane Hero Dog Awards®: 10th Anniversary Celebration on Hallmark Channel. Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine is the only veterinary medical professional program located on the campus of a historically black college or university in the United States. Tuskegee has educated more than 70 percent of the nation's AfricanAmerican veterinarians and is recognized as the most diverse of all accredited schools/ colleges of veterinary medicine in the United States. Veterinarians play a key role at American Humane as their knowledge informs the organization's scientific standards and guidelines protecting nearly one billion animals on farms and ranches, in zoological institutions, and on film sets around the world. American Humane veterinarians are also hard at work in the field, staffing free
of
medical clinics for pets in under-resourced areas, rescuing animals in disaster zones, and transporting shelter animals across the country. "We couldn't do the work we do around the world without veterinarians," said Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Humane President and CEO. "We also know that becoming a veterinarian can be costly and for many aspiring students that financial hurdle may
can change not only lives . . . we can change the world." "Zoetis has had a long-time commitment to supporting veterinary medical students and university diversity initiatives. Our Zoetis Veterinary Student Scholarship Program, has awarded over 3,600 scholarships totaling more than $7 million over the past 12 years," said Christine Jenkins, DVM, DACVIM, Vice President and U.S. Chief
be the only thing standing in the way of their dream to help animals. That's why, as CEO of American Humane, I am proud to announce, in partnership with inaugural sponsor Zoetis, that we are presenting our first American Humane Scholars Fund grant of $40,000 to the historic Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine." "American Humane's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is rooted in nearly 150 years of progressive work that has built the humane movement in this country and around the world," said Von Scott, American Humane's Committee for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion chair. "With the help of a new generation of humane heroes such as these promising new champions for animals from Tuskegee, we
Medical Officer at Zoetis. "We are pleased to partner with American Humane to provide additional scholarship opportunities for Tuskegee veterinary medical students." "We are very grateful to American Humane and Zoetis for partnering to support our students in the American Humane Scholars Fund. Their vision and generosity in this endeavor will support our deserving students seeking careers in veterinary medicine. Our alumna, Dr. Christine Jenkins, has been a consistent proponent of veterinary medical education opportunities for our students in which we are appreciative as well. We at Tuskegee focus on our students being career-ready veterinarians when they complete the curriculum to pursue the many employment opportunities in the veterinary
Veterinarians profession," said Dr. Ruby L. Perry, dean of the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. American Humane is the country's first national humane organization. For more information please visit www. AmericanHumane.org, and please follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Zoetis is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 65 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines, vaccines, and diagnostic products, which are complemented by biodevices, genetic tests, and precision livestock farming. Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers, and people who raise and care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in more than 100 countries. In 2019, the company generated annual revenue of $6.3 billion with approximately 10,600 employees. For more information, Located in Alabama as one of the state's two accredited veterinary programs, it was envisioned in 1944 by Dr. Frederick D. Patterson, founder of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and officially established at Tuskegee in 1945. It is the only veterinary medical professional program located on the campus of a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the United States. The College's primary mission is to provide an environment that fosters a spirit of active, independent and self-directed learning, intellectual curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, ethics, and leadership; and promotes teaching, research, and service in veterinary medicine and related disciplines. For more information, visit www.tuskegee.edu/ vetmed.
N E W Y O R K A F R I C A N F I L M F E S T I VA L G O E S V I R T U A L
kidnapping. Shoot the Messenger Ngozi Onwurah, 2006, UK, 100m In Onwurah’s provocative tale, David Oyelowo plays Joe, a school teacher in South London who is falsely accused of hitting one of his pupils. As the local Black population turns on him, branding him as a racist, a destitute Joe is forced to confront his fear and hatred of his own community. Shorts Program: Notes from Home A Game Marwa Zein, 2010, Egypt/Sudan, 6m Arabic with English subtitles
In Zein’s adaptation of a short story by the Italian writer Alberto Moravia, a playful game turns into a revelatory confrontation between a divorced single mother and her little daughter. Coffee Colored Children Ngozi Onwurah, 1988, Nigeria/UK, 15m
In this lyrical and unsettling film, racist harassment prompts two young mixedrace children to try and whiten their skin with scouring powder. Ngozi Onwurah’s semi-autobiographical testimony to the struggle for self-definition and the internalized effects of bigotry is a powerful catalyst for discussion. Love in Submission Lande Yoosuf, 2020, USA, 19m
In the suburbs of central New Jersey,
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two Black Muslim women from different backgrounds meet for the first time — only to discover that they are bound by an explosive secret. My Sister, Sara Sarra Idris, 2020, USA, 30m English and Arabic with English subtitles
In late 2018 and throughout 2019, Sudan experienced months of protests that ultimately overthrew a 30-year dictatorship. Sara Elhassan was among the young, grassroots activists who kept the world informed and connected during this time through social media, helping to mobilize global support for the cause of the Sudanese people. In My Sister, Sara, Elhassan and her older brother Amin, an ESPN sports analyst and TV personality, engage in a candid dialogue on survivor’s guilt, youth movements, and the role of women in the Sudanese revolution. Troublemaker Olive Nwosu, 2019, Nigeria, 11m Igbo with English subtitles
On an excruciatingly hot day in East Nigeria, a young boy learns the hard way that all actions have consequences. Troublemaker is a coming-of-age story about masculinity, violence, and the devastating costs of war across different generations. A Cemetery of Doves
Adé Sultan Sangodoyin, 2019, Nigeria, 15m
When a teenager’s declaration of love for an older man is met with rejection, he struggles with heartbreak and fear for his safety and future in a society intolerant of the LGBTQ community. FILM AT LINCOLN CENTER Film at Lincoln Center is dedicated to supporting the art and elevating the craft of cinema and enriching film culture. Film at Lincoln Center fulfills its mission through the programming of festivals, series, retrospectives, and new releases; the publication of Film Comment; the presentation of podcasts, talks, and special events; the creation and implementation of Artist Initiatives; and our Film in Education curriculum and screenings. Since its founding in 1969, this nonprofit organization has brought the celebration of American and international film to the world-renowned arts complex Lincoln Center, making the discussion and appreciation of cinema accessible to a broad audience, and ensuring that it remains an essential art form for years to come. Film at Lincoln Center receives generous, year-round support from The New York Times, Shutterstock, the National Endowment for the Arts,
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and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. American Airlines is the Official Airline of Film at Lincoln Center. For more information, visit www. filmlinc.org and follow @filmlinc on Twitter and Instagram. AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL, INC. For 30 years, African Film Festival, Inc. (AFF) has bridged the divide between post-colonial Africa and the American public through the powerful medium of film and video. AFF’s unique place in the international arts community is distinguished not only by leadership in festival management but also by a comprehensive approach to the advocacy of African film and culture. AFF established the New York African Film Festival (NYAFF) in 1993 with Film at Lincoln Center. The New York African Film Festival is presented annually by the African Film Festival, Inc. and Film at Lincoln Center, in association with Brooklyn Academy of Music. AFF also produces a series of local, national and international programs throughout the year. More information about AFF can be found on the Web at www.africanfilmny.org.
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N E W L U X U RY B R A N D C O M PA N Y E x p a n d s O f f e r i n g s
Gregory Sylvia has growing recognition and company founders, Gregory and Terri “Sylvia” Pope continue to strive for more. The husband and wife duo have been successful at building their startup brand from nothing to being considered by many to be a company to watch. In addition to its handbag line, the brand’s reach has expanded into other markets, including jewelry, watches, and cosmetics. Terri “Sylvia” Pope states, “Leather goods have always been our niche but we always knew Gregory Sylvia would sell more than leather goods. We’re excited to be able to offer our customers more quality products in other categories.” Gregory Sylvia has seen its share of success; generating a name for itself in the leather goods market, receiving the honor of designing bags for national organizations, being featured in numerous publications as a top black-owned handbag brand, etc. With the success, the next natural move for the company was to offer other accessories. Gregory Sylvia launched its collection of watches and fine jewelry accentuate the total luxury look of its consumer base. Within the jewelry collection, the GS Diamond Collection features high-end diamond
rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Along with the new accessories, Gregory Sylvia introduced its own beauty line in early fall of 2020. GS Beauty features custom-formulated lipstick, lip gloss, makeup, and skin care products. Although Gregory and
Terri “Sylvia” have been hard at work developing their company, they have no plans on stopping. The couple is currently designing new handbag styles and finalizing new partnerships for the upcoming year. Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Gregory Sylvia is luxury brand
featuring handbags and accessories. The company was founded in 2010 by husband and wife Gregory and Terri “Sylvia” Pope. FOR MORE INFORMATION about Gregory Sylvia, please visit http:// gregorysylvia.com
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